- Feel Good
- 24th Jul 2024
- 0
- 5 minutes
5 run clubs in the North East for every kind of runner
By Molly Wear.
No one can deny that running is back in a big way this summer.
With this, there has also been a massive rise in running clubs, where groups get together for their weekly miles.
Whether you’re just thinking about starting, are training for the Great North Run, or looking to meet more like-minded people in the area, one of these clubs in the North East is bound to have something for you…
Croissant Run Club, Newcastle
Croissant Run Club hosts runs all around the world, and just over a year ago the club landed in Newcastle. Runs are hosted every Sunday at 9:30am from Monument and finish at different bakeries around town for pastries, coffee and a catch-up.
The club is great if you’re looking to meet new people as they emphasise the social aspects of a run club, and it also serves as a perfect chance to try new foodie spots.
The club posts all of the information about the week’s run on their Instagram. Typically around 4-5k and going at a leisurely pace, these runs are ideal for any beginners and those who love to have a chat during their jogs. It is completely free, so it’s perfect if you’re new to running clubs, and it doesn’t require any booking.
These Girls Run, Newcastle
Started by founder Molly in York in 2021, These Girls Run is now the UK’s leading all-female running and wellness club, with 10 locations around the country. The Newcastle branch runs a 5k at a conversational pace from Sweaty Betty in Jesmond every Saturday morning and sometimes on Wednesday evenings. Bag drop-off is available.
The club states that it aims to be a ‘safe, sweaty, supportive space’ that’s there to ‘cheer you on, give advice and support, and form amazing sisterhoods’. The group is inclusive of runners of all levels, and the ambassadors at the back of the run mean no one gets left behind.
Another social group, the girls typically go for coffee together after their morning miles, and have even gone on retreats in the past with members from around the UK.
Feeling nervous to join a run club without knowing anyone? The club’s online community on CLIQ means you can chat to the girls before you go on your run.
While runs were previously £2 to book, TGR has just announced that they will be free going forward.
Collective Run Club, Newcastle
If you’re looking to improve your speed and endurance, this could be the club for you. Collective Run Club hosts a 10k every Thursday evening, starting at Cycle Hub on the Newcastle Quayside.
The set pace of 56-60 minutes for a 10k may seem daunting to some. However, the flat route without any road crossings, as well as a motivating group, means many who come end up smashing their personal best.
After their runs, the group typically go for a drink at the Tyne Bar. So if you’ve got a bit of experience running (i.e. can run 10k) and are looking for a social club then this is definitely an option. The route along the Quayside is also so beautiful you can see why the group have chosen to run here every week for over a year.
Durham Mums on the Run
You don’t necessarily have to be a mum to run with this club. Durham Mums on the Run provides an inclusive space for women in Durham who want to get fit and meet other women.
Running on a Monday morning, the club hosts an all-ability session, so everyone is welcome to run at their own pace. The club also offers groups for a variety of needs, including Couch to 5K groups, post-natal groups, hill sessions, and off-road running.
All runs are free, and can be booked via their website.
Sunderland Strollers
Launched in 2015, Sunderland Strollers hosts at least six runs per week and invites members to take running ‘as seriously as they like’.
The number of different runs on offer means that you can tailor your routine to suit you perfectly. For beginners, easy runs on Wednesday go at a variety of paces and distances. Alternatively, for those currently training for a race, the strollers also offer 10k trail runs around Penshaw Hill and track runs to work on speed.
Membership is £35 per year and includes an England Athletics (UKA) registration fee, giving members a £2 discount on any UKA race. Non-members are also welcome to come to a ‘try before you buy’ session to make sure it is right for them.
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